I attended the very fist Ferdinand's ball in 2011 and every year since except one where I was filming America's Next Top Model All Stars.

So I can personally say this is the best way to kick of The Kentucky Derby.  The event is held by 2 passionate sisters and every year the ball just gets bigger and better. With elegant red carpet fashions, celebrity guests , open bar, VIP gourmet dinner, silent auction a live band and in the past they have even had a Photo Booth and ice cream.  

The gala was created to honor Ferdinand, the 1986 Kentucky Derby Winner and 1987 Horse of the Year, who after his racing and breeding careers had ended was slaughtered in 2002. It is the mission of Ferdinand’s Ball to give back to the magnificent animals that have given their hearts, souls, and bodies to this sport and its people so that they can retire in style and dignity.

All proceeds from the gala go to helping ensure Old Friends Farm, a retirement facility for stallions whose racing and breeding careers have come to an end

So what's VIP look like?......... Well heres a view from my table and you can see why I don't miss this elegant event!   

Chicken and fish 

founders Aimee Boyle Wulfeck and Kim Boyle to the right

photo by Photographer Hunter Zieske 

Kim Boyle and Laura